Are you in need of a campground near Fife Lake, MI? Fife Lake is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near Fife Lake, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.
"Located on busy US-31, but with pedestrian bridge over 4 lanes to beach. TART (Traverse Area Recreation Trail) access from campground. Easy biking to Traverse City or Acme."
"Bathrooms were clean, sites were average size for Michigan state parks. Close to the bike trail, though a little noisy from the nearby airport and roads."
$60 - $260 / night
"We stayed here in our little offroad teardrop camper which looked like David & Goliath when contrasted against the massive 5th wheels surrounding us."
"There is a pool, jump pad, miles and miles of mountain biking trails and hiking trails, a man made lake which has some inflatable water toys."
$20 / night
"Every year I camp on the Green Lake side of Interlochen State Park, and this year was the first year I allowed a guest - my fiance."
"Not super close to Michigan cities, but can drive back and forth to Traverse City."
"Absolutely serene and secluded in the gorgeous northern Michigan wilderness.
This is a park and walk camping spot. Also permits are apparently required as this is a state park."
"We didn't know too much about Sands Lake when we arrived, so we just drove in a few minutes and found a beautiful lake with a prime campsite next to it."
"The NCT and Fife lake loop trailhead is right in the campground. There is also Manistee river access for kayaking and fishing. Good sized campsites but some are directly across from each other."
"it was cold and rainy so we passed on hiking. we decided instead to drive around and explore the traverse city area and some of the dog friendly parts of sleeping bear dunes national lakeshore. had a great"
$25 - $55 / night
"There is plenty of walking area to get some exercise for yourself and dogs.
I would highly recommend making this campground one to park your camper at!!!👍"
"This campground is centrally located to everything that’s going on, on the west side of the state. Whether it’s trail riding, Traverse City Cherry festival or hanging in the town of Manton."
"It's fairly wide open, with trees around, but this was great as it made stargazing easy."
"I like the location; very secluded in the State Forest but only a half hour from downtown Traverse City. This facility meets the recreation need of a diverse cross section of Michigan residents."
$20 / night
"Pretty good campground other than it’s right off M-66 and you can hear the traffic, but the campground is clean and nice, right on spring lake with easy access if you like to boat, kayak, or fish."
"However, it is perfect for backpackers looking to complete the Fife Lake Loop."
$45 - $60 / night
"This park is situated up on a hill on beautiful Elk Lake. Elk Lake can easily access Torch River and into Torch Lake. It has a fantastic boat launch which we have used."
"The park itself is positioned on a hillside next to a lake. We had a site at the top of the hill which I recommend."
$25 - $55 / night
"We rented a extra site, so nobody could rent near us, sooo nice! Very close to Manistee River and canoe/raft liveries, very fun family togetherness activity."
TravelerYou have to reserve in the summer, but during offseason it is free/first come first serve. Scenic spot right on the pond/dam backwaters. Very spacious and spread out sites. Many sites were full when I came on a crappy weather Thursday night in early September. Is a bathroom within walking distance of a few sites. No water fountain/pump that I was able to located but there were easy walkways down to pond. Pond was warm/comfortable swimming temp even on a cold day but was full of seaweed which made swimming difficult/not enjoyable.
TravelerStaff was super helpful (loaned me a bear box) and friendly. Checkout was flexible. Lots of sites close together but each had plenty of space and flat ground. Ground soft enough for tent pegs. Each site has picnic table and fire pit. Bathroom and water fountain within easy walking distance. Fairly full on crappy weather Friday in early September. Very windy.
ScoutThis is a military base and need proper identification to enter. The sites are well maintained (sand pads). The beach area is well maintained and relaxing. The wireless internet is GREAT! Also have cell coverage. Clean and quite for only $20 per night (cash or check only). The camp site manager (Tim) was fantastic!
GuideAbsolutely serene and secluded in the gorgeous northern Michigan wilderness.
This is a park and walk camping spot. Also permits are apparently required as this is a state park. They were out of camping registration cards. I think this park is being impacted by the recent cuts to forest service. Anyway, I went ahead and stayed. I was the only one here. The nature - forest, lake, and wildlife had me in tears.
From the trail head/parking it’s about 1/2 mile or less to bathrooms and lake camping. There was spotty service for T-mobile but I managed to get some texts + calls through.
I’d love to come again.
ScoutAwesome facility. Shaded sites that are good size. We have a 23' travel trailer and has plenty of room. Full hook ups including sewer make it very convenient.
GuideRight of charlevoix lake with a nice beach. Our site was level.Very clean and well kept campground. 20 minute walk to downtown East Jordan. Lots are small
GuideNice campground. The NCT and Fife lake loop trailhead is right in the campground. There is also Manistee river access for kayaking and fishing. Good sized campsites but some are directly across from each other. A little bit of noise off in the distance sometimes but not sure where it was coming from other than that it was quiet and peaceful
ScoutThe campsite was very large with lots of spots to camp. Trails and a sizeable lake made it even better. Great location and only about 15 minutes from Sleeping Bear dunes.
RangerThis is a nice little private campground. The people are friendly and it appears to be well kept. The sites are pretty close together, and with many people having a boat, and/or extra canopies, etc., on their sites, it seemed so. Very. Crowded. The location is great - right on a bike path and close to the super cute town of Frankfort and easy access to Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Camping near Fife Lake, Michigan, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
Camping near Fife Lake, Michigan, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Whether you want to relax by the water or explore the woods, you’ll find a spot that fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Fife Lake camping areas?
Camping areas around Fife Lake offer a variety of amenities. Old US-131 State Forest Campground provides spacious, wooded campsites with Manistee River access for kayaking and fishing. The North Country Trail and Fife Lake Loop trailhead are located right in the campground. At Thurston Park Campground, you'll find lakefront sites with fishing and paddling access, plus a playground adjacent to the campground. Most sites in the area are rustic but well-maintained, featuring fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets, though amenities vary by specific location.
Where is Fife Lake campground located in Michigan?
Fife Lake is located in the northern part of Michigan's Lower Peninsula. Two popular camping options in the Fife Lake area include Old US-131 State Forest Campground and Spring Lake State Forest Campground. These campgrounds are situated near the North Country Trail and the Fife Lake Loop trail system. The area provides access to the Manistee River, making it a convenient base for hiking, fishing, and kayaking activities.
Are reservations required for camping at Fife Lake?
Reservations are not required at many campgrounds around Fife Lake. Spring Lake State Forest Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. This makes it particularly convenient for backpackers looking to complete the Fife Lake Loop, as they can stop for the night without prior planning. For more options with reservation systems, Traverse City State Park Campground is available within driving distance. It's advisable to arrive early during peak summer months and weekends to secure a spot at the first-come, first-served campgrounds.
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